Hartlepool chairman Ken Hodcroft last night paved the way for the appointment of the club's new manager when he announced the departure of Kevin Sheedy.

The former Newcastle midfielder, who arrived at Victoria Park as Mike Newell's assistant, faced a bleak future following the controversial departure of the Pool boss at the end of last month.

But, with the Second Division outfit believed to be close to revealing the identity of Newell's successor, the inevitable announcement was made yesterday.

"Owing to team management changes within the club, Kevin Sheedy has been served his termination notice and will no longer be involved in football matters," revealed Hodcroft in a brief statement.

Hartlepool, who unveiled Newell as Chris Turner's replacement only last November, are expected to make an appointment this week following a month of interviews. Although the likes of Steve Cotterill and Terry Dolan are in the frame to take charge at Victoria Park, a clutch of managerial novices have also held talks with Hodcroft this month.

Tony Mowbray, Alan Kernaghan, Richard Gough and Martin Scott have all been seen - while former Ross County boss Neale Cooper is also believed to be in the running.

Hartlepool have been paired with Turner's Sheffield Wednesday in the first round of next season's Carling Cup, with the tie to be played in the week beginning August 11.